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Fifth position is impressive in itself, but it is the zero beside Hoffenheim’s defeat tally that really stands out . Having narrowly avoided relegation last season, Hoffenheim are now the only remaining unbeaten team in the league this term, and one of only two sides undefeated in Europe’s top five leagues – the other being Real Madrid CF. Julian Nagelsmann's side have taken points off FC Bayern München, Borussia Dortmund, RB Leipzig and were convincing 3-0 winners away at Bayer 04 Leverkusen. Surrendering leads in six of their ten draws is something to be rectified in the New Year, but it has been a highly satisfactory campaign for the Sinsheimers thus far.

After scoring 14 goals to almost single-handedly keep SV Darmstadt 98 in the Bundesliga last term, Wagner has progressed to another level for Hoffenheim. This season he has nine in 16 matches and is an absolute mainstay of the side, playing 90 minutes in 13 of those games. In 2016, he has also netted 29 goals, making him the most prolific German striker in the division. After making his top-flight debut for Bayern in 2007 and scoring seven goals in his first 85 Bundesliga appearances, Wagner now has 23 in his last 47, a truly remarkable improvement.

Honourable mention: Julian Nagelsmann

Thrown firmly into the deep end when he took over aged just 28 in February, Nagelsmann steered Hoffenheim clear of relegation trouble before masterminding this season’s 16-match unbeaten run. Leading a young team playing an exciting brand of football, there is certainly much to admire about Nagelsmann’s coaching philosophy.